Lethal wildlife management occurs when entire populations of wild animals are targeted for reduction and systematically “controlled” by legal hunting, culling, poisoning, or other means to bring down population size. Despite claims that they are “science-based,” such practices are highly controversial.

Conflicts with wildlife can range from concerns about deer affecting forest biodiversity to sea lions eating salmon that people want for themselves.

Lethal control raises some of the most challenging ethical questions we can ask about our relationship with the natural world.

Is it "right" to round up and kill geese because they defecate on lawns? Should we kill mountain lions because they eat deer people want to hunt? Is it right to poison ground squirrels because they dig burrows in our parks?

There was a time when such questions would not even have been asked. But today it's time to not only ask the right questions, but find the right solutions.

When communities have problems with coyotes, deer, Canada geese, beavers, or other urban wildlife, there's no need to resort to killing the animals. Our guide for community leaders explains how to implement nonlethal and long-lasting solutions.

You can help pass laws that protect animals in your state. Humane Lobby Day is easy, fun and guaranteed to make you feel like a powerful animal activist. We'll help you find the Humane Lobby Day in your state.

The Humane Society of the United States and The Humane Society Wildlife Land Trust are offering a $2,500 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for setting an illegal trap that resulted in the death of a coyote in Lake Forest Park, Wash.

Membership

The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) is registered as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Contributions to The Humane Society of the United States are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. The HSUS's tax identification number is 53-0225390.